From Stardom to Struggle: The Untold Story of Mary Lou Retton’s Rise in Gymnastics and Her Ongoing Health Battle

Mary Lou Retton became a star overnight. At just 16, she won gold in the all-around gymnastics competition at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. It was a proud moment for her and the country.

But this spotlight came at a cost. Now 57, Retton faces many health challenges. Her ex-brother-in-law, Shaun Kelley, revealed she often struggles to breathe and uses an oxygen cannula. He remains concerned about her well-being, especially after she faced legal troubles recently.

This past May, Retton was arrested for DUI in her hometown of Fairmont, West Virginia. Cops found her in her Porsche and, according to the report, she appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. It was a stark contrast to her glory days when she became the first female athlete on a Wheaties box.

Retton has had a tough road. She’s dealt with long-term effects from COVID-19 and pneumonia, which have caused serious lung issues. In fact, she spent a month in the hospital last year and was once told to say her goodbyes. “My lungs are so scarred. It will be a lifetime of recovery,” she shared, highlighting her struggle to reclaim the physical strength she once had.

Financial strain has compounded her difficulties. During the pandemic, her speaking engagements dried up, leading to a tough financial situation. Her daughter, McKenna Kelley, organized a fundraiser that raised nearly $500,000 to assist with medical expenses, surprising many who had seen Retton as a prominent figure in gymnastics.

Despite her current challenges, Retton has remained active. She started a new business—Forever Our Legacy—focused on gymnastics competitions for mothers and daughters. This initiative speaks to her commitment to empowering young athletes while rekindling her connection to the sport she loves. They plan events in multiple states, adding a personal touch with meet-and-greet opportunities with Retton and McKenna.

Retton also creates gymnastics equipment with a Michigan leotard company and promotes her own line of themed leotards. They even engage with fans through Cameo, where McKenna offers personalized video messages.

Despite facing adversity, Retton is proud of her four daughters. “They’re extraordinary young women and my biggest accomplishment,” she said. As she prepares to celebrate her daughter Emma Jean’s upcoming wedding, Retton remains hopeful and focused on family.

In a world sadly filled with fleeting celebrity, Retton’s journey reflects both the highs and lows of fame. Her story is a powerful reminder of resilience, especially in the face of personal and health crises.

For more insights on long COVID and its implications, you might find information from the CDC valuable [here](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/long-term-effects.html).

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